The Most Important Skill

There are a lot of different skills in life however one skill tops them all. This skill is required to learn any other skill. This wonderful skill is communication. Communication starts at the base level of what language is being used such as English, Spanish, Mandarin, and etc. In my field of quantitative finance, many speak English as a second language which adds more complexity to communicating. As a native English speaker I also find it difficult to communicate with others around me. Communication is more than just language. It is the proper selection of words as well as the tone that will transfer your intentions to those around you. Without the mastery of communication it will make learning and teaching much more difficult. It will also impact your relationships in and out of the work place. In my field of quantitative finance communication becomes even more important as the materials are fairly technical. The best quote I have seen was the comparison of a Ferrari without a driveshaft. A quant might be very smart and one of the best in his/her field however if they can’t communicate their ideas they are worth very little to any company.

One resource that I have found helpful in improving my communication skills is the book, “Crucial Conversations Tools for Talking When Stake Are High” by Patterson, Grenny, McMillan, and Switzler. I have also found it helpful to participate in more public speaking opportunities and then asking for feedback from a few friends in the crowd.

Do you agree? How have you improved your communication skills?

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